ATA praises Gatwick Express decision

10th Apr 2007

The Air Transport Association has praised the
United Kingdom decision to continue nonstop express rail service between
Gatwick Airport and London Victoria Station.ATA applauded the decision, announced last week by U.K.
Transport Secretary Douglas Alexander, to retain and expand the
quarter-hour, nonstop service between Gatwick and London.

“We are delighted that the United Kingdom has recognized the importance
of this dedicated, nonstop service to all airline passengers, especially
those from the United States, visiting London,” said ATA President and
CEO James C. May. “Passengers long have relied on the service that the
Gatwick Express provides. This decision means continued convenience for
our customers who frequent Gatwick Airport, while also ensuring Gatwick
remains a competitive international airport.

May also commended U.K. Department for Transport Director
General of Civil Aviation David McMillan and Permanent Secretary Sir
David Rowlands for taking the time to discuss the importance of the
Gatwick Express service.

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“We had meaningful discussions that led to decisions that will bring an
abundance of benefits for travelers visiting one of the world’s great
cities,” said May.

In December of 2006, ATA and its member airlines submitted
comments on a series of four options that the United Kingdom was
considering for the future of the Gatwick Express. The airlines and
other economic and tourism industry stakeholders expressed their belief
that the maintenance of a full Gatwick Express service is essential for
Gatwick to remain competitive internationally as an airport, and to
support the city of London.——-